Glucose Fasting (FBS), Sodium Fluoride Plasma

The blood glucose test may be used to detect high and low blood glucose levels. It is a simple test to assess carbohydrate metabolism in diabetes mellitus. Measurement of blood glucose is indicative of current state of carbohydrate metabolism since glucose is rapidly metabolised in the body. It is used as a screening test for diabetes before signs and symptoms are apparent, help diagnose diabetes, prediabetes and gestational diabetes and to monitor glucose levels in people diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders of carbohydrate metabolism in which glucose is under used, producing hyperglycemia. As it progresses, patients are at an increased risk for the development of specific complications including Diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy and atherosclerosis. This test measures the level of glucose in the blood after fasting for at least 8 hours. Fasting Blood Glucose should be measured in all asymptomatic persons at age 45 (or younger patients at increased risk), with follow up testing every three years.

1. Can glucose levels be tested in urine instead of blood?

It ca ot be done in most cases, as glucose levels are detected in urine only when the glucose levels in the blood are in sufficiently high levels or if there is renal damage.

2. What is the treatment for diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes: type I and II. For type I diabetes, insulin injections are given. For type II diabetes, life style modifications such as weight loss, healthy diet that is rich in fiber and restricted in carbohydrates, and exercise may be enough to lower blood glucose levels. In some cases however oral medications are necessary.

3. What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include confusion, dizziness, hunger, headaches, weakness, sweating, anxiety, oral numbness and seizures & coma in severe cases.

4. What are the complications of diabetes mellitus?

Complications of diabetes mellitus include diabetic retinopathy leading to blindness, diabetic nephropathy leading to renal failure or diabetic neuropathy causing nerve damage and atherosclerosis which may result in stroke, gangrene, or coronary artery disease.